Medium severityTech Support Scam
"Your Computer Is Infected" Browser Pop-Up
Updated July 1, 2026
A full-screen browser alert claims your device is infected and provides a phone number to call for 'support.'
Warning signs
- A browser pop-up that's difficult to close, sometimes with a fake countdown or alarm sound.
- Instructions to call a phone number to 'fix' the issue.
- Requests to install remote-access software once you call.
What to do
- Close the browser tab or restart the browser — don't call the number.
- If the pop-up won't close, restart your device.
- Never install remote-access software for someone who contacted you first.
These pop-ups exploit legitimate browser features (like JavaScript alert loops) — no real virus is required to display one.
See our guide on Recognizing Tech Support Scams for a deeper walkthrough.
This write-up is an educational summary of a known scam pattern, not a real-time threat alert, and does not name any specific Augusta-area victim, business, or law enforcement case.